fbpx

National Diabetes Month November 2018 – A Statement from the Calorie Control Council

Recognizing the escalating rates of diabetes worldwide and acknowledging the central role a healthy diet can play in managing diabetes, the Calorie Control Council (CCC) strongly supports global efforts to increase awareness of the risks and complications associated with developing diabetes as well as strategies for preventing or managing the disease during National Diabetes Month. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), over 425 million people are currently living with diabetes, and this number is expected to rise to 522 million by 2030. As a global association representing low- and no-calorie sweeteners (LNCS) and products, which have been shown to help patients manage diabetes and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, CCC has a significant part to play in this fight, by communicating the role of LNCS products in a healthy diet

While diabetes is the focus every year during the month of November, lack of awareness of the prevalence of diabetes and the importance of risk-reduction strategies remains a significant challenge to be addressed year-round, both in the US and abroad. Of the over 425 million living with diabetes, only half of them have been diagnosed. Although several factors, including genetics, contribute to type 1 and type 2 diabetes, IDF research notes that 80% of cases of type 2 diabetes are preventable through the adoption of a healthy lifestyle, which incorporates diet, exercise and weight management. In addition, while type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease and cannot be prevented, managing blood sugar levels is equally as important in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes in order to avoid short and long-term complications.

There are differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes, but both require significant emotional support, health education, and resources. As those with diabetes can attest, there is no quick and easy fix to achieving good blood sugar levels, and managing diabetes all day, every day can feel like a full time job in itself. In order to achieve and maintain good blood glucose control, healthy lifestyle choices must be sustainable over time. Low- and no-calorie sweeteners are tools that help people with diabetes to select and enjoy foods that they would otherwise not freely be able to, without affecting blood glucose levels or causing blood sugar spikes after consumption. Since these sweeteners provide few-to-no calories, they can also safely support weight loss and management.

The 2018-2019 theme for the IDF’s World Diabetes Day and National Diabetes Month is “The Family and Diabetes.” This two-year timeframe was chosen to raise awareness of the impact that diabetes has on the family and support network of those affected, and to promote the role of the family in the management, care, prevention, and education of diabetes. CCC stands by families impacted by diabetes and is committed to continuing to provide food and beverage options for diabetes patients. Further, CCC commends the families and friends who play an active role in addressing modifiable risk factors for type 2 diabetes, and who are encouraging proper foods, beverages, and physical activity for healthy blood sugar control amongst those with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

For more information on the role of low- and no-calorie sweeteners in the diets of those with diabetes, click here.

faq2Do you have questions about low-calorie sweeteners? Want to learn more about maintaining a healthy lifestyle? You asked and we listened. Our resident Registered Dietitians answered the most popular questions about low-calorie sweeteners.

Media Contacts